Aizawl, Sep 20 : Leaders of the Nagaland Baptist Churches' Council (NBCC) recently visited Mizoram to study how free and fair elections are held here. Mizoram is considered a model state for free and fair polls by the Election Commission of India as the churches play a proactive role in curbing unfair poll practices.

Naga church leaders held discussions with the church-sponsored election watchdog, the Mizoram People's Forum (MPF). MPF leaders, headed by its chairman, Rev Thangzauva, the moderator of the Presbyterian Church Synod, informed the delegation that elections in Mizoram are always fair because churches, NGOs and political parties work in tandem and cooperate with government agencies.

NBCC delegates were also informed how constituents of the MPF and political parties work together during elections. NBCC leaders are members of the Working Committee on Clean Election, a forum formed by NBCC and led by its convener Hovithal Sothu. The other members are Panger Nungba, H Moba and Mong Zeuba.

The delegation also met leaders of the Presbyterian Synod, the central committee of the Young Mizo Association (YMA) and veteran politicians and former ministers, Zosiama Pachuau and C Chawngkunga.

Churches in Mizoram spread awareness before polling about the importance of electing the right candidate.